LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix on Monday named Erik Katenkamp VP of omnichannel and application development. Katenkamp has been instrumental in launching the Publix Delivery online shopping solution, including formalizing Publix’s collaboration with Instacart.

In this role, he will focus on the continued development and execution of the company’s omnichannel strategy.

“With dedicated resources, we will be able to focus on the accelerated growth of our omnichannel strategy,” stated Todd Jones, CEO and president Publix. “Our online offerings are an extension of our in-store experience. We remain committed to providing exceptional service to our customers in whichever manner they choose to shop with us."

After starting a career in the aerospace industry, Katenkamp came to Publix in 1995 as an industrial engineer in manufacturing. He was promoted to business IT manager in 1999 and director of business application delivery in 2006. In 2013 he was named VP information systems — application development.

Katenkamp graduated from University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering.

CHICAGO — J.A.R. Laboratories on Tuesday announced the results of a trial comparing its OTC LidoPatch (lidocaine 3.6%, menthol 1.25%), prescription (Rx) (lidocaine 5%) and placebo in patients who suffer from arthritis and back pain.

The OTC patch was proven as effective as Rx lidocaine patches by significantly improving patients' pain, mood and ability to perform normal activities when compared to placebo.

Switching to OTCs from Rx's can provide benefits to patients and payers alike, J.A.R Laboratories noted. There is the potential for less cost to the patient and could reduce the number of visits to their doctor. Payers gain an advantage by switching to a lower cost product and less resource utilization by its members.

Back pain is the second most common reason for a physician's visit in the USA and the second most common reason to miss work.

Bartell Drugs opens 15th CareClinic

SEATTLE — Bartell Drugs has added to its roster of CareClinic by Kaiser Permanente locations with its latest at the Redmond Town Center. The opening comes less than a month after the chain opened its 14th CareClinic amid a flurry of store openings.

“Patients come to our CareClinics for quality and convenient care,” Kaiser Permanente clinician and CareClinic chief Michael Erickson said. “We’ve proven that CareClinics live up to the promise of quickly diagnosing and treating common ailments. We get you in, taken care of and on your way for an affordable price.”

The clinics are led by Kaiser Permanente care teams to provide services for minor illnesses and injuries, as well as such preventive care offerings as vaccinations. To celebrate the opening, youth physicals will cost $25 from Aug. 21 to Sept. 10 at any CareClinic.

“Bartell Drugs guests have told us they want the ability to get care and treatment as well as everyday necessities in one place,” Bartell Drugs director of CareClinic Operations John Lewis said. “That’s why we’re so excited to continue our expansion in order to offer our services to more communities around the region.”

Pulitzer Prize-winner Peggy Noonan, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and singer Diana Ross now feature on the schedule for the National Association of Chain Drug Stores Annual Meeting, slated for April 21-24 in Palm Beach, Fla.

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